Jeroen Van Bauwel, director product management, said, “The technology generating the tactile and textured layer is embedded in the Panther’s X-800 workflow. It is the brand owners and designers who define the structure, shape and form of the design. When the file is received, the workflow automatically recognises the elements of the design and generates the information required to drive the printhead – that’s what creates the haptic effect in print on the end product.”

The combination enables printers to create designer labels with enhanced tactility, textures and a luxury feel. The tactile effects on labels are widely used in the beer, beverage, food, and health and beauty markets.

“This introduction by Xeikon has expanded the range of applications for high-end label markets, and has helped make significant time savings by avoiding any modifications to the prepress files,” added Van Bauwel.

In order to further optimise the workflow on the Panther, Xeikon has developed a solution, embedded in the X-800 workflow: an automated optimisation of the white ink layer.

Van Bauwel said, “An opaque white is required to make the design standout, this may result however in varying ink layer thicknesses across the web. The uneven thickness of the ink layer will generate a telescoping effect on the printed rolls. This can now be handled in a fully automated way by the X-800 digital front-end without intervention at any stage in the production process.”

According to Bauwel, the X-800 automatically reduces the white layer. The extent of reduction will depend on the colours that come on top of it. This will result in an increase in uptime during the manufacturing process – both in printing and converting – as printers can run larger rolls.

“Xeikon continues to work towards excellence to enhance every facet of its portfolio. Achieving haptic effects in print through the unique capabilities of our X-800 workflow and ink optimisation not only boosts and increases the range of possible applications but allows printers to streamline their operations,” said Van Bauwel.